Jumpstart Your Child’s Reading This School Year
Practical Tips for Parents
As the school year kicks off, getting your child back into the habit of reading can set the tone for a successful academic year. Whether your child is just starting kindergarten or is in the sixth grade, here are some practical tips to make reading a fun and integral part of their daily routine.
Create a Reading Routine: Consistency is key! Set aside a specific time each day dedicated to reading. Whether it’s after dinner or just before bedtime, having a regular reading time helps children know what to expect and builds a positive reading habit.
Make It Fun and Interactive: Engage with your child during reading time. Ask questions about the story, let them predict what will happen next, or act out scenes together. This interaction not only makes reading enjoyable but also improves comprehension and critical thinking skills.
Let Them Choose: Give your child the freedom to choose the books they want to read. Whether it’s a picture book, a chapter book, or even a comic book, allowing them to pick what interests them will keep their motivation high and foster a love of reading.
Incorporate Reading into Daily Activities: Reading doesn’t have to be limited to books. Encourage your child to read recipes while cooking, signs during a walk, or instructions for a new game. This shows them that reading is a practical skill used in everyday life.
Visit the Library Together: Make a trip to the library a regular outing. Libraries often have special events, reading challenges, and a vast selection of books tailored to various reading levels and interests. It’s a great way to expose your child to new genres and authors. We love the Mt. Washington library branch!
Set an Example: Children often mimic the behavior of their parents. If they see you enjoying a book, magazine, or even a newspaper, they’re more likely to pick up the habit themselves. Talk about what you’re reading and share your excitement with them.
Attend a Winn Reading Storytime: Our storytimes are designed to make reading fun and engaging for children of all ages. It’s a great way to introduce your child to new books, meet other young readers, and get involved in the community. Check out our events page for upcoming storytimes.
Celebrate Progress: Celebrate small milestones in your child’s reading journey, whether it’s finishing their first book of the school year or mastering a new word. Positive reinforcement builds confidence and encourages them to keep going.
By incorporating these simple tips into your daily routine, you can help your child ease back into the school year with a renewed love for reading. Remember, the goal is to make reading a fun and enriching experience that they’ll carry with them throughout the year.
